Get a load of all those blessings

January 5, 2010 in: Devotions

This devotional was written for the American Christian Fiction Writers central region blog. I’m happy to post it here.

A pot of potato soup was simmering on the stove, but I discovered I was out of crackers, so a quick run to the neighborhood grocery store was in order.

Walking out of the store with a box of saltines, I headed across the parking lot and noticed a gray Impala parked near the front door.

“That’s a nice looking car,” I thought.

Then I gasped. And with a little chuckle, pulled the keys out of my purse and unlocked it. That nice looking car belonged to me!

In my defense, I’d only had the car two weeks. A new car certainly wasn’t in the plan, but the old one bit the dust. It had been rather hectic buying a new car and I was just relieved to find something.  That surprise in the parking lot revealed that I had completely overlooked the blessing of this vehicle. I’d been praying and stressing about buying a new car, but hadn’t taken time to enjoy what a gift it truly was.

We do that too often, I’m afraid. We fail to recognize the blessings God has given to us, sometimes even while complaining about them.

The New Year would be a good time to take a moment and ask God to open your eyes to see all he has given. What about your family that drives you nuts but you love dearly? That daily grind of a job? Ministries at church? For a moment, let’s not see them as demands, but as delights poured out from heaven.

This year begins with a big change for my writing career. About six months ago, I started a part-time job and began freelance writing. The writing took off way beyond my expectations and circumstances changed so that I quit the part-time job. I am now a full-time freelance writer.

And it scares me to death! I have been worrying plenty about paying the bills, making sure there is enough work and being disciplined enough to work at home. Then I think, “Hello! This is my dream job!”

Is anyone out there guilty of same thing?

Gratefulness is the most sincere expression of a Christian’s heart. I believe when we give thanks to God, especially when we’re struggling, it gives him great pleasure and sets the scene for him to work in amazing ways.

What are some of the blessings you are thankful for and how will you use them to God’s glory in 2010?

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” Col. 3:15